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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:28:26 GMT -5
Prologue
Space. This has always been the final frontier for humanity. In the late twentieth century mankind made many explorations into this great expanse but never settled there. This all changed in the year AD 2008 when mankind received a large growth in population. A solution was needed.
At the start of the year 2009 the United Nations made a treaty with many other countries, communist, and capitalist. This treaty called for an alliance between the nations, in order to bring about space colonization. What was formed was an area-organized alliance, dubbed the United Earth Government. Once this was accomplished it became time to start on colonizing space. To live in the Island 3 colonies were chosen.
Island 3 colonies, originally designed by Princeton University professor Gerald K O’Neill, were cylindric structures with hemispherical end caps. Dimensions for these habital structures were 32 kilometers long and with a 3.2 kilometer radius(a 6.4 kilometer diameter). With three “earth panels” and three “sky panels” this design recreated life on earth. Clusters of these colonies were constructed and launched into space. With two groups of colonies at the Lagrange point 1 and two more at Lagrange point 2, these were immediately populated by people hoping to escape the crowded earth.
One of the greatest achievements in this movement to colonize space was the mobile worker. This machine was used as advancement to the space suit, a pod like structure allowing heavy construction to be done quicker and easier. Meanwhile, five “Sides” had been completed. Everything seemed perfect.
Then in the year AD 2088 the UEG made a terrible mistake. One of their warships accidentally attacked a shuttle carrying civilians from Side 5. Seventy-eight people died in the incident. The Side called for retribution for this tragic mistake but was denied, being told that it was their fault for “bad identification”. In anger for this act Side 5, along with Sides 1, 2, and 4 formed the Alliance of Colonies.
Tensions ran high as a “Cold War” began between the two sides. Both sides utilized the new “beam” technology and began to build up their military in hopes of gaining the advantage when war broke out. While the UEG built many battleships and space fighters, now called mobile armors, the AC took the mobile worker and modified it heavily. The end result was the humanoid war machine: the mobile suit. This seventeen meter tall machine would prove to be quite decisive in the coming months.
Finally at the end of 2098 war erupted. In the first two months the AC launched a series of campaigns and captured the moon in a bloody battle, with two thirds of the casualties on the UEG side. The deciding factor? The mobile suit that out performed the mobile armor. It is said that without the help of the elite Myrmodian mobile armor corps the entire UEG forces would have been wiped out.
As of now the war has gone on for seven months with no side leaning toward victory. It is rumored that the European Nations of the UEG are constructing prototype mobile suits to help with a counterstrike against the AC...
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:29:31 GMT -5
Chapter 1: Gathering Clouds
European Alliance mobile carrier Hector July 9, AD 2099, 1109 hours
“Captain we’ve been given permission to dock at Athens,” Ensign Natalie Thompson said from her communications station.
“Good. Helm, bring us into port,” Captain William de Rochefort ordered, taking a seat in his chair, which was at the top level of the two level bridge. He ran a hand through his gray flecked brown hair and sighed. It had been a long trip since the ship had launched from the spaceport in La Rochelle, France. Thanks to heavy AC activity they had had to make a full rotation around the planet before heading to their destination. Now they were stopping at the UEG supply base Athens.
“Captain the Paris and the Sparta have also been granted permission to dock as well,” Natalie reported as the ship entered port. The zero-gravity dock encompassed the ship as it slowed to a halt, docking gear clamping onto it.
“Okay, once everything is taken care of try to get some rest okay?” de Rochefort said with a weak smile. He, like everyone else on the bridge, was very tired. “Inform the pilots that they have been granted shore leave.”
“Yes sir,” Natalie replied, preparing to carry out his orders. *** Alliance of Colonies Assault Carrier Rome 1117 hours
“It seems they stopped to refuel Commander,” Lieutenant Nicholas Kulich II of the AC’s Red Army observed.
His superior, Commander Vladmir Scalichs replied, “Yes it seems so. Our intelligence section reports that there are around six mobile suits on those two carriers. Apparently they are also better then our Centurion mobile suits.”
“Maybe we could capture them,” Lieutenant Isaac Heres suggested, looking up from a map of Athens. He, like Nicholas and Vladmir wore the deep red uniforms that denoted top graduates of the military academy, which meant immediate transfer to the elite Red Armor. Like Nicholas he bore pilot tags.
“Yes, that is an option. Considering how the UEG values their relatively few space outposts a loss of one would be good for the colonies. As long as we are hidden in the asteroids of Athens we should have enough time to prepare an attack. Nicholas and Isaac, you two organize a strike team to capture or destroy the mobile suits. Communications, contact the Herod on the current plan and have them prepare their mobile suits.” *** UEG Space port Athens 1129 hours
Ensign Davis Charon looked around the asteroid base as he strolled through the hallways toward the docks. After a tour of the port he had decided to come back to his ship, the battleship Sparta. Everything finally seemed peaceful finally. After launch the trio of ships had spotted a pair of AC ships nearby, which had caused the longer journey. Now Davis could relax, smell the oil and metal of the dock.
Davis was surprised to enter the dock and see the mobile suits out of the ships. The machines, although constructed on a similar frame all bore their own unique features. One was very smooth looking, with many curves on its arms and legs. Another bore many guns and weapons. One was all sharp angles with triangular shields on each arm that sported weapons on them. Another bore wrist machine cannons while one more was similar, although the machine cannons were on the neck. The final mobile suit bore a large amount of thrusters and looked extremely agile.
This was the second time Davis had seen these mobile suits. The only other time was when the mobile armor team he belonged to had been informed on what they were escorting. He had to admit, they looked better then the Hoplite mobile armor he piloted. He began to walk toward he ship when his stomach growled. He chuckled and turned the other way. He heard that there was a great selection of fruit juices at the base. *** AC Assault Carrier Rome 1129 hours
“Okay the objective is simple. The commandos on the other assault boat will attack first and allow us to enter the dock and capture the mobile suits. The Centurions from the ship and the Herod will provide us escort,” Isaac said, addressing the five other pilots on the small ship that would take them into Athens. Beside him Nicholas donned the “body armor” that the others were wearing. It was a chest-covering group of sandbags really. Most people were more concerned on not getting hit then if their armor would save them but they were all grateful to have the armor. Pulling on his helmet and sealing his normal suit Nicholas prepared to leave the Rome.
“So do you think these Earth mobile suits will look good?” asked Nicholas’s friend Isam Estavis.
“Its an earth made machine what do you think?” retorted one of the pilots Daniel Dia. “Matthew are you okay?”
The youngest of the five conversing pilots Matthew Fury. The nervous pilot was gripping his small cross in prayer, hoping not to be hurt in the upcoming fight. Isaac scoffed at Matthew’s actions, calling him a coward.
Before any kind of argument could start one of the other commandos announced, “The ships just fired at the dock. I think I see mobile armors coming this way!”
Nicholas looked out at the Centurion mobile suits escorting the small space boat. They held their heavy machine guns in a smooth mechanical fashion that seemed to fit in with their Roman like design. With five-piece pauldron and breastplate designs that seemed to come out of the long past they were elegant and deadly. Considering that only six mobile suits and two space boats filled with soldiers were about to fly headfirst into a UEG base he though Matthew had the right idea to pray.
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:29:48 GMT -5
*** UEG mobile armor Apollo 1131 hours
Lieutenant Junior Grade Richard Carson cursed as his mobile armor flew out of the dock, which was now in flames. He cursed at the asteroids around Athens that had hidden the two enemy ships. He now had to deal with six AC Centurions with only his elite mobile armor and two standard Hoplites. The other two pilots had not been found in time to fight. Damn those fools.
Unlike the standard Hoplite mobile armors his Apollo was the new model that was supposed to start being produced but had been held off for because of the mobile suit project. At least his could hold his own against the mobile suits that AC used. It held the standard 110mm machine cannon but also held eight wire guided missiles that could keep up with the maneuvering capabilities of the mobile suits.
“Okay we are going to join up the base’s mobile armors and stop these mobile suits. The dock has been damaged so the carriers won’t get out. We do have the Sparta launching but we can’t rely on her. Just stay focused and we’ll be fine,” he said as he approached the inclosing Centurions. On his side missiles were launched, which the mobile suits easily dodged. He threw his Apollo into a barrel roll to avoid a trio of bullets aimed at him and flew into the fray.
He targeted a Centurion that had shot down one of the base’s Hoplites and fired a missile at it. The suit tried to out run it but the missile caught up, detonating on impact. The right leg and part of the right arm and torso were torn away in the explosion, which sent the Centurion tumbling away. Richard finished it off with a pair of shots in the backpack which ignited the fuel tanks.
With one enemy finished he pulled his mobile suit up sharply so that it was suddenly flying the other way. He performed another barrel roll to dodge more gun fire as he tried to see what was happening to his comrades. He saw one try to keep up with a Centurion only to be shot through the cockpit trying to bank into a dive. Another had a wing cut of by a mobile suit’s swords. Richard knew that despite their superior number the UEG forces were still outmatched. He cursed and launched another pair of missiles into the gunfight. *** Alliance of Colonies Assault Carrier Rome 1136 hours
“Commander Scalichs we have confirmed that two of our mobile suits have broken through their defensive line. We have also confirmed one lose. Also the commandos have reached the docks,” a bridge member reported.
“Good,” Vladmir replied sitting in his chair. “Hold off fire on the dock for the time being. Concentrate on their outer defenses and that battleship that left the dock before it was wrecked. Make sure the Herod is informed of the change in strategy.”
“Yes sir!” *** United Earth Government space base Athens dock 1136 hours
Davis ran out into the dock to get to his mobile armor. His normal suit was already on and he gripped his Beretta and ran to the balcony to where one could overlook the ships and the mobile suits. What he saw was terrible.
Soldiers in AC normal suits gunned down mechanics and soldiers from the base. Explosions from grenades seemed very common. One of the mobile suits, the one that looked agile, had launched, trying to attack a Centurion. Before it could do any good the Sparta, which was at the far end of the dock was shot down by another Centurion and began to drift to one side, crashing into the mobile suit. They crushed into a wall and the ship’s reactor exploded, taking the ship and the mobile suit with it. Meanwhile three other mobile suits were boarded but Davis could not tell by whom.
He aimed his gun at a AC soldier that was pinning some mechanics down. He put two shots into the man who fell to the ground dead. Another AC soldier fired at him from close to one of the remaining mobile suits that was being attempted to loaded onto the ship labeled Hector. Davis ducked down, barely avoiding being shot. He got up and kicked off the hand rail on the balcony. In the zero gravity he flew to the lower level of the dock, firing his Beretta repeatedly. The soldier fell to the ground, shot through the neck. *** “Isam!” Nicholas yelled. He stared at that man in a pilot suit leap down to the mobile suits and gun down his friend. A fit of anger seized Nicholas and he fired his machine gun at the pilot, not stopping. The pilot hit behind one of the mobile suits, the one with the arm mounted machine guns. Nicholas grabbed his last grenade and threw it at the spot the man was hiding. He spotted his target leap onto the torso of the mobile suit to avoid the explosion. Nicholas fired his last bullets at the man, one hitting him in the arm. The man clutched his wound and hid close to the cockpit of the mobile suit. When Nicholas did not spot him he figured the man must have boarded the machine.
“Damn him!” Nicholas cursed and ran the opposite direction. He spotted the last mobile suit available, the one that seemed very smooth. With a leap he flew to the cockpit and opened it, getting inside his intended target. Closing the hatch he activated the machine. On the computer below the front monitor a model number appeared. EAMS-545 Achilles.
A nice name, Nicholas thought. He quickly found the operating system in the computer and flew toward the exit of the dock. With the limited space available he flew out barely as the two Centurion continued their attack.
Next time on MSG: Indiges: With the sudden attack on Athens Davis Charon has suddenly been thrust into a new and deadly weapon. With a battle escalating he will be tested in how he chooses to fight.
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:31:13 GMT -5
Chapter Two: The Storm Bursts
European Alliance mobile carrier Hector July 9, 2099, 1137 hours
"What's going on out there?" Captain de Rochefort yelled, amid the explosions that filled the docks. He winced as an explosion knocked a bit of scaffolding onto the bridge, creating an unpleasant noise.
The ships radar officer, who was now using his eyes rather then his machine to see what was happening, replied, "Captain the Achilles, it just launched!"
"What side does it seem to be on Yaqub?" de Rochefort asked.
Yaqub Clariek, the radar officer responded, "Its launching for the enemy ships sir. The Centurions are letting it pass!"
"Damnit! What about the last mobile suit has it launched yet?"
"Sir it appears to be starting to move," Yaqub replied. *** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1137 hours
Davis Charon gripped his injured arm in pain as he lay in the cockpit of the European Alliance mobile suit. He could feel his warm blood pouring out onto his hand and was trying to keep his grip on his arm. He breathing was deep from his pain but he sat up in the cockpit and slowly activated the computer of the mobile suit. Quickly a list of data popped up on the computer.
EAMS-212 Aeneas Operating System: General United Neurolink Defensive Assault Maneuvering
This appeared along with links to weapons systems, and technical status. With his good arm he opened up the file on operating the “Aeneas”. A list of controls appeared, along with an edit button. From what Davis could see the controls slightly resembled a mobile armors controls but aside from that they were very different. He looked them over twice and tried to move the mobile suit. The mobile suit put one hand of the trailer it was one to push it up but Davis could not get the Aeneas to fully stand.
“This OS is too freaking complicated!” he yelled in pain and hit the edit button on the computer. Immediately he was given a list of controls and their functions. From his time piloting a Hoplite mobile armor Davis knew a bit about operating systems, at least on a mobile armor. He only hoped that his plan would work. When he finished he tried to stand the mobile suit again. He grinned in success as the mobile suit stood up, although somewhat loosely in the zero gravity.
Now able to move the mobile suit Davis took the time to survey the surroundings. From what he could see the dock was in ruins. Soldiers of the Alliance of Colonies still continued their attack inside; gunning down people that weren’t in a ship. The two carriers, the Hector and the Paris seemed to be okay, although a Centurion mobile suit was attacking the Paris. With a feeling of bravery he checked the weapons systems again, grabbing the shield that was next to the mobile suit, and flew toward the ship that had originally housed the mobile suit. *** Alliance of Colonies mobile suit Centurion 1140 hours
Ensign Jack Price grinned as he fired off another bazooka round at the mobile carrier. The rocket slammed into the port side, causing a large explosion and sending bits of blue metal flying away. He ejected the empty clip from his bazooka and replaced it, dodging anti-air fire from the damaged ship.
As Price prepared to fire a shot into the ships bridge he was stopped as 90mm bullets flew past his Centurion, a few glancing off his suit’s armor. Price turned to see a mobile suit fly towards him. It had a different look then his Centurion. If Price was a student of ancient art he would have realized that his Centurion was based off a Roman design while the approaching mobile suit had a Trojan-like feel.
Price grinned. This was one of the mobile suits the commandos had been sent to capture. Of course, Price’s orders were to shoot down any mobile suit that was fighting against his forces. Still grinning he fired off a round at the attacking mobile suit. To his surprise the pilot managed to dodge it, the explosive slamming into the “ceiling” of the dock, sending more metal flying in every direction.
“This pilot is kind of good,” Price said to himself as the mobile suit attacked him again. The wrist mounted machine popped up again, its two barrels spraying bullets at him. Price obviously had more experience with mobile suits then Davis and therefore easily dodged the attacks. He aimed his bazooka at the mobile suit again, the crosshairs locking onto his target. He depressed the trigger, sending the round flying at the European Alliance mobile suit.
He grinned in success at the resulting explosion. He cursed though, as the flames died in the oxygen free space and the mobile suit appeared again, a lot of burn marks on the shield. Unbeknownst to Price, Davis grinned at the fact that the shield was made of the same armor as the mobile suit, along with an anti-incendiary and anti-beam coating.
In anger Price fired another round at the mobile suit. The result was the same as before, although the shield was showing some signs of damage. He cursed a string of oaths that would have made anyone stare and fired his Centurion’s CIWS. The bullets slammed into the mobile suit, its armor leaving it nearly unharmed.
“Die you ****ing devil!” Price yelled as he flew toward the exit of the dock. The mobile suit flew after him, firing its wrist machine gun non-stop. Price was sweating in fear as the mobile suit flew after him. He managed to dodge most of the incoming bullets, the ones that hit only causing minor damage. He wasn’t scared of that; he was scared that the mobile suit didn’t seem to be able to be shot down.
Suddenly the attacks stopped. Price laughed in shock as he realized the mobile suit was out of ammo. He slowed down and let the mobile suit pass him by. As the suit turned around to attack him he raised his bazooka. The mobile suit raised its shield up close against the bazooka for protection and extended its right arm to the torso of the Centurion, its machine cannon at the ready, despite being empty.
“**** you!” Price yelled as he fired off his bazookas last round. The resulting explosion wrecked the end of the bazooka. It also wrecked the Earth mobile suits shield, sending it flying back, away from the combating mobile suits. To Price’s shock the two barrels of the Earth mobile suits machine cannon split apart, revealing a grenade launcher. Price screamed as two explosive rounds slammed into his cockpit, the shrapnel and flames killing him instantly. *** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1145 hours
Davis Charon stared as the Centurion slowly floated away from the Aeneas. He was breathing heavily, the adrenaline rush not mixing with his pain from his wound. He was clutching his wound again, pulling out a small roll of bandages to stop the bleeding. As he wrapped it around the wound he looked around at the situation. The Hector was trying to exit the dock, and to his surprise hailing him on the radio. He quickly answered, happy to have contact with someone on his side.
“This is Ensign Davis Charon from the Sparta,” he said over the radio.
“Ensign Charon this is the Hector, please dock in the hangar. Use the elevator at the deck of the ship,” came a female voice, with a French accent.
“Yes ma’am,” Davis replied and moved the Aeneas toward the ship. It was designed with a curved bottom like a water ship and had a flat top, except for the raised aft deck, which housed the bridge and a pair of anti-air guns. Davis landed the mobile suit on the catapult runway that ran the length of the top deck, before stopping at an elevator in front of the bridge. Davis breathed a sigh of relief as he was lowered into the ship. *** Alliance of Colonies Assault Carrier Rome 1146 Hours
“Commander Scalichs, we have retrieved Lieutenants Kulich and Heres’ units. The Herod has retrieved Lieutenants Dia and Fury’s. What are your orders?”
“Begin bombardment of the dock. I want those ships trapped in there,” Vladmir replied, eyes closed in deep thought.
“Commander we have just received word that Ensign Price’s Centurion has been destroyed in combat with one of the Earth’s mobile suits!”
“That is a shame. Recall the rest of the mobile suits and have the Herod take care of any pesky mobile armors or Athens base defenses,” the Red Army officer replied, sighing, eyes still closed.
“Yes sir!”
As the orders were sent for a retrieval of units Vladmir thought the situation over. As far as things went the commandos still at Athens has probably prepared the explosives and were leaving the base. Hopefully the Centurions had caused enough damage in the docks to destroy one ship.
“Commander there is a mobile armor coming in fast, at forty-five degrees above port!”
Vladmir was thrown from his concentration at this announcement. Quickly his military training kicked in and he yelled, “Hard to starboard! Lower the ship to 135 degrees and move engines to full combat speed! All anti-air guns fire!”
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:31:27 GMT -5
*** UEG mobile armor Apollo 1147 hours
Lieutenant Junior Grade Richard Carson’s teeth were clenched in anticipation as he flew his mobile armor straight at the Alliance of Colonies Caesar class carrier. As the ship started to move and the anti-air guns took aim on his mobile armor he fired his last four missiles. They flew the course he quickly imputed into his computer and the wires guiding them sent them straight at his targets. One was shot down by the gunfire but two hit the Caesar class ship close to its two main guns, causing the explosion to cover them. The third slammed into the engine of the ship, causing a large explosion.
Carson grinned and pulled his mobile armor up quickly, cutting speed to allow him to pull off the complicated maneuver. He performed a barrel roll, dodging a trio of bullets. He cursed as a pair of anti-air bullets hit one of his four wings on the mobile armor. With smoke trailing out of the damaged part of the machine he flew back toward the dock, his goal accomplished. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1148 hours
On the bridge of the Rome chaos was at its best. Reports of damage and casualty lists were quickly becoming common. Vladmir Scalichs sat in his chair, eyes closed in regret and mourning for those who passed in the sudden counterattack.
“Enough!” he yelled suddenly. “We are to withdraw from the battlefield. Inform the Herod immediately.”
“Sir the enemy ship is leaving port! It’s opened fire!”
“What?” Vladmir stared as the ship, the gray one, not the blue one still in port, exited the ruined dock. Ahead of it were the two commando space boats that had carried the pilots and soldiers into Athens. The UEG ship was firing all its guns, obviously to ward off the Colony ships. Although, the ship did have a gain from its strategy; the two space boats were shot down by anti-air fire. Vladmir stared at the fast moving ship intently. He grinned as something unique happened in the dock.
A large amount of explosion suddenly occurred around the docks exit. Pieces of shrapnel flew off in every direction, crashing into the ship although not doing any damage. The Earth ship was lucky enough to have just left the dock, so that it only to the shock wave of the explosions and not the full force of it.
Vladmir still stared at the ship flying in a straight line from the dock away from the Alliance of Colonies ships. It continued to fire its guns, although more sparingly now. As the Rome started to move away from the asteroid base the Earth ship quickly flew away from the base and the enemy ships.
“Do not pursue!” Vladmir said as he saw the Herod move after the enemy ship. The communication officer relayed his message and Vladmir sighed as the ship slowed to a halt.
Vladmir took a deep breath, holding it for a moment before exhaling. A few seconds later the communications officer looked up. “Commander we have a message from Athens!” *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1150 hours
As the Hector flew away from the asteroid base Ensign Davis Charon stepped onto the second level of the ships bridge. He was greeted by a tall man of French decent, his white uniform somewhat rumpled, his brown hair flecked with gray. His rank tabs said he was a naval Captain, a good few ranks above Davis.
“I assume you are Ensign Davis Charon, assigned to the Spartas mobile armor team and pilot of the EAMS-212 Aeneas?”
“Yes sir! I am sorry to say that my ship was destroyed. Permission to stay aboard?” Davis asked, somewhat harshly, as his wound aggravated him.
“Of course. I have to thank you for shooting down that Centurion. By the way my name is William de Rochefort, captain of this ship,” de Rochefort replied.
“It is a pleasure sir,” Davis replied. Then the captain, who had been staring at Davis’ face noticed his bandaged arm.
“You should go to the infirmary and have that wound check out,” he said sympathetically. Davis nodded, saluting before turning to leave the bridge. He was stopped however, by the arrival of his commanding officer, Lieutenant Junior Grade Richard Carson.
“Charon?” Carson asked surprised. Davis nodded and Carson happily clapped a hand on Davis’ right shoulder, despite a small wince on Davis’ part. Carson apologized before saying, “I thought you had been killed!”
Then with a grimace he scolded, “Why didn’t you join the fight?”
“Sir I was piloting the mobile suit in the hanger,” Davis explained. He was a bit nervous. Richard Carson was known as a kind person and a great pilot but he was a bit too serious sometimes.
“I see,” Carson replied. He was about to say more when Captain de Rochefort interjected, “If you don’t mind Lieutenant Carson I would like to have a word with you.”
Carson nodded, leaving Davis to leave the bridge and go to the infirmary. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1154 hours
Nicholas Kulich II sighed as he sat down on the couch in the pilots lounge. He was depressed that his friend Isam had been killed today. They had been friends since the military academy. Now he was dead. For what? Four mobile suits made by the Earth?
He looked up as the door to the lounge opened and a girl around the age of 19, a year younger then Nicholas entered. She had deep brown hair tied in a ponytail and she wore a red uniform similar to the others, although hers had a red skirt instead of pants. It was his sister, Alexandra.
“Are you okay?” she asked quickly to Nicholas. He nodded and she turned to Isaac and asked the same question. He nodded, not talking. Instead he pulled her close, planting a deep kiss on her lips. Nicholas grimaced slightly. It was hard to watch his younger sister kiss her lover, his comrade.
Before anything else could happen the door opened and Vladmir Scalichs walked in, long white hair trailing behind him. From what the rumors on the ship were Vladmir’s hair wasn’t dyed, it was white because of shock.
The three saluted. Their commander returned the gesture and stood before them, hands behind his back. They awaited what he was going to say and stood eagerly, well not Nicholas. Finally Vladmir talked.
“We have decided to pursue the enemy ship. We have only two Centurion mobile suits left though. I was thinking it would be interesting to see how a Earth mobile suit fares against an Earth ship. Our salvage crew has gone back to the dock at Athens and have recovered the weapons and other equipment for your machines. We need you to prepare them for combat.”
With that the Commander simply left. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1202 hours
On the bridge of the Hector Ensign Natalie Thompson looked up in surprise and turned to Captain de Rochefort. “Sir we have just received a message. It’s from the Paris!”
Next Time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges: Having fled the fallen base Athens, the Earth ship Hector prepares to meet up with its sister ship the Paris. Unknown to them, it is a trap set up by the Red Army. Will they survive?
Author's Notes: Incase anyone hasn't realized this I am trying to give the UEG units Trojan and Greek type names. I am also trying to give the Alliance of Colonies units Roman and Biblical names.
Also there are Trojan, Greek, and Biblical references all around. -Fireball
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:33:19 GMT -5
Chapter 3: Fleeing From Fighting
Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1205 hours
The hanger was in chaos. Everyone hurried to equip the stolen units with the weapons salvaged for them. Meanwhile the pilots of the machines sat watching all this happen. With them sat Alexandra, also interested in what was happening.
"So the Earth actually created an operating system nearly identical to a Centurion's?" she asked, looking to her brother.
"Yes. I think they took it from a captured Centurion. I only had to modify mine to make it exactly the same as a Centurion," he replied, mentally preparing for battle.
Isaac looked over at Nicholas and added, "It figures the Earth couldn't make anything original. They had to copy us."
Nicholas nodded half-heartedly as he continued his mental preparation. Alexandra did not notice her brother's concentration as she turned to her lover with a smile on her face.
"Hey! Pilots! You're mobile suits are ready!" a mechanic called out from a catwalk above. Nicholas nodded and stood up from the crate he had been sitting on. Turning to his sister he said:
"You should get yourself to the bridge. I'm going to need you were you can guide us. The captured ship won't have an operator so I'm counting on you."
Alexandra nodded as Nicholas walked off. She turned to Isaac who kissed her lightly, saying, "I'll come back don't worry. When I do we're going to celebrate right?"
"Of course!" she replied enthusiastically. He hugged her quickly before donning his normal suits helmet and walking off toward his machine. Alexandra waved after him before hurrying off to the bridge. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1214 hours
"They should be here by now," Captain de Rochefort muttered, staring out into space for any signs of the Paris. Yaqub turned to his commander and simply said:
"They will be here. Allah will grant us this favor."
William nodded quietly, still uncertain. It was by pure luck they had escaped the ruined dock of Athens but to believe the other ship had was somewhat hard to do, despite confirmation from them.
"Sir! I've spotted the Paris off the starboard side!"
"Open contact immediately!" William ordered, happy to see his ships sister. *** Davis Charon smiled happily as the medic finished working on his arm. His wound was bandaged and his arm was now in a sling. He happily exited the infirmary, going to find the cafeteria to get something to drink. He had lost his chance to have a fruit juice earlier due to the attack and he was quite thirsty. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Herod 1214 hours
"So are you ready for this?" Daniel Dia asked his comrade Matthew Fury as they prepared to enter their mobile suits.
"I think this plan might just work. Plus I just prayed so I feel a bit better. Good luck out there Daniel," Matthew replied.
"Same to you Matthew," he responded. The two shook hands and walked off to there respective mobile suits.
Daniel entered his. Turning on the mobile suit he stared at the computer. The name EAMS-134 Odysseus appeared, along with the standard display. Daniel was a reader of Homer's works and liked the name. His new mobile suit was named after his favorite character from the Trojan War. Daniel quickly checked the weapons load out, making sure everything was in order and prepared to launch.
Meanwhile Matthew was doing the same thing. He smiled at the name that appeared. EAMS-426 Ajax. He liked the sound of that. He made the sign of the cross in front of him and also prepared to launch. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1217 hours
"So Charon, where do you think we'll be heading from here?" Richard Carson asked. Davis looked up from sipping his water and shrugged his shoulders. Carson laughed and shook his head.
The two walked to the bridge to see what was happening with the Paris when the ship was suddenly rocked by an explosion. They stumbled to their feet as the ship stopped shaking and ran to the bridge. What they found was chaos.
“Ship spotted at six o’clock!”
“Damage to port engine number 2!”
“Mobile suits launching from the Paris!” yelled Yaqub.
“What?” Captain de Rochefort yelled in shock. He pushed himself out of his chair to stare at the Paris.
“I’ve got visual confirmation! It-its the Achilles and Diomedes!”
“What? They’re using those mobile suits?”
Yaqub then cried out again. “From behind! It’s the Ajax and the Odysseus!”
William turned to the two pilots and yelled, “Get your machines out there immediately! Helm, hard to starboard and move to full speed!”
Without having to be told twice the two pilots hurried out of the bridge. They stumbled a bit as two more explosions rocked the ship. Getting to their feet they ran to the hanger to launch their respective mobile weapons. *** European Alliance mobile suit Achilles 1218 hours
Nicholas Kulich II flew his mobile suit toward the ship, aiming his beam riffle at its rear engines. His crosshairs locked on and he was about to fire when a missile nearly struck his mobile suit. He flew back to avoid it and missed his opportunity to shoot the engines.
Nicholas took the opportunity to smile at the plan. It was perfect indeed. He allowed himself only a moment however, as he flew toward the ship once more. He weaved his way through the thick layer of anti-air fire and landed next to the catapult. He was about to fire at the bridge when a mobile armor appeared on the catapult. It was one of the new models being used by the UEG. He took aim but he lost it as the mobile armor flew down the catapult, launching into the battle.
“Damnit!” he cursed in anger as he suddenly found another mobile suit in front of him. It was the one that was still in possession of the UEG. He guessed the man that killed Isam was piloting it. The usually calm Nicholas suddenly felt anger building inside of him and he aimed his beam riffle at the mobile suit attached to the catapult.
The mobile suit suddenly ejected itself from the catapult, raising its own beam riffle at the Achilles. Neither hesitated and fired. The Earth mobile suit was hit in the shield, which did not cause any damage. The Achilles was hit in the shoulder, only to have it not cause any damage, thanks to the anti beam coating on all of the Achilles. Nicholas laughed mirthfully; it really did live up to its namesake.
The Aeneas holstered its beam riffle and flew toward the Achilles, its two-barreled machine cannon popping up. As the Aeneas opened fire Nicholas moved his mobile suit to the side, dodging the yellow tracers. He aimed his beam riffle at the suits side and was about to fire when the Aeneas’s pilot knocked the beam riffle to the side with its shield.
“Damn you,” Nicholas muttered as the mobile suit suddenly flew away from the ship toward the damaged ship they had captured.
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:33:43 GMT -5
*** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1220 hours
Davis stared at the mobile suit he was fighting. From his computer he identified it as the Achilles, the fifth of the mobile suits, and one of the most powerful. This pilot was pretty good too...
As he moved the Aeneas toward the Paris he grinned as the Achilles followed him. He landed on the ships bridge and fired a pair of grenades at the enemy. The Achilles dodged and flew toward him, beam riffle holstered, and beam saber in hand.
Davis threw his mobile suit backwards, holstering his beam riffle and pulling out a beam saber. He barely managed to parry the slash that was directed at the Aeneas’s cockpit. He spun the Gundam around and tried to stab its cousin but Nicholas parried his strike, yellow beam on pink.
The two knocked each other back, with Davis having a bit of trouble stabilizing his machine. Finally they faced off with each other again. Davis tried to stab the Achilles but Nicholas grabbed the Aeneas’s arm, keeping the beam saber from not hitting the Achilles. Then Nicholas placed a kick on the Aeneas’s chest, sending it stumbling back. Davis was about to attack again when suddenly Carson’s voice filled his radio. “Charon behind you!”
Davis barely heard the warnings sirens before he moved his mobile suit to the side. He barely dodged the beam spike aimed at his Gundams back. Davis turned to face the Diomedes. Its dark gray and black color scheme made it hard to see but he could make out the beam spikes emitting from the beam generators mounted on its wrists.
Davis could see he was outnumbered and raised his wrist machine cannon. He fired off a trail of bullets at the two mobile suits. Then he flew backwards, then changing direction to fly under the ship. He cursed when he spotted what awaited him.
Davis stared at the heavily armed Gundam Ajax. It held two machine guns used by Centurion mobile suits in its hands. Wasting no time Matthew opened fire on the Gundam Aeneas. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1221 hours
“Sir the Paris has opened fire!” Yaqub yelled to William.
“Damnit. Shoot it down!” de Rochefort replied.
“Are you saying we should fire on our own ship?”
“Would you rather we get shot down?” *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1222 hours
“What is the status of the Gundams?” asked Vladmir Scalichs from his seat on the bridge.
“The Achilles, Ajax, and Diomedes have engaged the enemy mobile suit. The Odysseus is attacking the enemy ship,” Alexandra replied from her station as operator.
“We can’t draw our attack on the ship to thin. Have the Diomedes attack the enemy ship,” Vladmir replied coolly. He brushed a lock of dead white hair from his face, grinning intently. *** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1222 hours
Davis threw his Gundam to the side to avoid the barrage of bullets that flew past him into the vastness of space. He opened fire with his beam riffle only to have the heavily armed Gundam dodge. He was surprised when it suddenly discarded empty machine guns and reached to its hips. What appeared to be long skirt armor on the sides of the Ajax turned out to be a pair of telescoping beam cannons that opened fire on him.
Davis flew away from the beams. One struck his shield, sending it flying away. He barely managed to dodge two more, only by flying to the top of the Paris. Here he was met by a slash from the Achilles. He turned the Aeneas to the side to dodge. Nicholas cursed at the Earth pilot as he turned to stab the Aeneas. Davis managed to pull out a beam saber in time, parrying the strike.
“Ensign Charon! Return to ship immediately! We are about to open fire on the Paris,” came the voice of Natalie on his radio. Davis fired off a grenade at the Achilles to force it to spend time dodging before flying off toward the Hector. *** European Alliance mobile suit Odysseus 1223 hours
Daniel flew around the gunfire generating from the pesky mobile armor that was attacking him. He grinned in success as his crosshairs locked onto the machine and he prepared to fire his long beam riffle when he was suddenly being attacked from above. He looked up to see the Gundam Aeneas fly toward him, beam saber brandished.
As Davis slashed at Daniel the latter activated the “jittle” on his long beam riffle, blocking the beam saber while he was given the time to draw his own. The two beam sabers met, yellow on yellow, in a clash of plasma. Daniel grinned as he fired his shoulder mounted machine cannons at the Gundam Aeneas, sending Davis flying backwards to avoid.
Meanwhile Isaac had moved the Diomedes behind the Aeneas and prepared to perform the same attack he had done before. Beam spikes powered up he rushed toward the enemy when an explosion rocked his mobile suit. He turned to see the Apollo mobile armor fly past him, last missile spent.
While this was happening the Hector had taken aim on the Paris. Its beam cannons turned to its new target and in a wave of yellow light flew through space, ending up to pierce the Paris’ reactor. In a brilliant wave of flames the ship was sunk. Isaac cursed at this and prepared to stab the Aeneas.
Before he could attack Davis however, a signal flare appeared in the darkness of space. It signaled retreat. Isaac cursed in anger but grudgingly turned his mobile suit around and flew away, back to the Rome. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1300 hours
Everyone on the bridge was relieved as the ship sped along through space, toward a somewhat large amount of UEG controlled space. Natalie was happily drinking an iced tea and relaxing after the stressful day. William de Rochefort was not at the bridge however. The Captain was in his quarters, pouring himself and Richard Carson a drink.
Walking onto the bridge Davis took a deep breath. It was good to relax. He hadn’t been able to in a bit. He stared for a moment at the gorgeous blond sitting in the communication officer’s seat. He quickly shook that thought out of his head and walked over to the glass window that showed the Earth and space together. It was a beautiful sight to see. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1317 hours
Alexandra rolled over in her bed to face Isaac. The usually good natured, although somewhat cynical, pilot was staring up at the ceiling blankly. This was a first for Isaac.
“Are you okay?” she asked, wrapping her arms around his chest. He sighed and looked over at her. “I don’t know. I just hate loosing a fight. I get so tense and stuff. Its just battles are really hard on me I guess.”
Alexandra smiled and kissed him tenderly. He smiled and turned to face her. For now at least, they were happy.
Next Time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges: Finally fleeing Athens the Hector receives new orders involving gathering forces. Meanwhile the two Red Army ships also receive new orders. All this and more next time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges!
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:34:23 GMT -5
Chapter 4: New Orders
European Alliance mobile carrier Hector July 10, 2099, 0823 hours
Davis smiled weakly as he sipped his coffee. After the rush of everything yesterday he was glad to have been able to get a good nights sleep. He strolled through the hallways of the unfamiliar ship. He took a large gulp of coffee and walked into the hanger.
He looked down at the large hanger occupied only by one mobile suit and a smaller mobile armor. The mechanics were still taking care of the Gundam Aeneas. Partly due to a fact Davis had forgotten to mention yesterday. One of the mechanics spotted Davis and yelled at him loudly.
"You! Hey get down here!"
Davis complied and walked down the catwalk to the Aeneas's cockpit. The chief mechanic, one only a year or two older then Davis, looked quite mad. Pointing into the cockpit he yelled, "What did you do to the operating system? We can't check to see if the mobile suit is functioning correctly if we can't move it!"
Davis stopped from taking another sip of coffee, replying, "I modified it so I could pilot it. The other way was too complicated. So I changed it to be like a mobile armors."
The mechanic gritted his teeth. Finally he looked up at Davis saying, "Well could you at least go in there and test it out? We need to recalibrate the systems for the new OS."
"Sure," Davis replied, taking a sip of coffee before setting it on the side of his mobile suit and entering the Aeneas. With the signal from the mechanics he activated the Aeneas and began the tests. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1123 hours
Lounging back on the couch in the Pilot's Lounge, Nicholas Kulich II smiled. He was enjoying the pleasant ride to the AC base Acre. He set down his copy of Twenty Years After and stretched. He was glad to have finally reread that book. It was quite good after all, Dumas was a great writer.
Getting off the couch and picking up his book, Nicholas exited the Lounge. As he turned the corner to the hallway that held his quarters he was surprised to see Commander Vladmir Scalichs walk toward him. He seemed like Count Rochefort from his book, pale and white haired, although a good forty years younger. He brushed past Nicholas rudely, hurrying off for some unknown destination. The older man's face seemed drawn, and his left hand was twitching oddly. What was this about?
As the Commander vanished around the corner Nicholas shook his head, getting off the subject. The Commander had acted like this before, although Nicholas had never gotten a good look at what seemed wrong with him.
Nicholas walked into his room and turned to the small desk that housed his also small book collection. War made it hard to find good books sometimes. Setting down Twenty Years After he picked up another favorite of his; Angels and Demons, a book by Dan Brown, famed for The DaVinci Code. Sitting back in his chair he turned to were his bookmark was and began to read. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Herod 1523 hours
"And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from the heavens in the eyes of men," Matthew quoted, his Bible lifted close to his face. He enjoyed reading the Book of Revelations. Although chapter 13 was unsettling for him he was drawn to it.
"Seems fitting for war, huh Matthew?" Daniel asked, looking up from the report on his new mobile suit. Matthew looked up, startled out of his concentration he got every time he read Scripture. "What? Oh I don't see how."
"You don't remember the videos on the first Earth strike the Red Army made?" Daniel asked. At this Matthew shook his head, giving Daniel the introduction for his answer. "When the Army dropped Centurions and troop carriers they were attacked by ground-to-air missiles and fighters. Some of our machines were destroyed, 'raining down fire from the heavens.'"
"Oh," mused Matthew, thinking that over. "That's one way of looking at it."
Daniel chuckled and set down his report. Turning to Matthew he simply said, "You religious types are so hard to talk to."
"Oh is that so?" Matthew said, attempting to get out of his chair. However, his foot slipped on spilled water and he fell to the ground, the flailing arm that held his Bible hitting Daniel in the face.
"Ow! I think I got Bible smacked," he said, rubbing his nose. "I think I'm going to go to the hanger. Nobody carries Bibles there to hit you with."
"That's true," Matthew said while getting to his feet. "They only have wrenches and other assorted objects made of metal."
"Exactly," Daniel replied, leaving the room with a goofy grin, leaving Matthew to his Scripture. The former casually walked down the hallways of the Caesar class ship, which was the same design as the Rome. Due to the close distance between the Pilot's Lounge and the hanger Daniel reached his destination in a small amount of time.
"Hey! Alonso!" he called, getting the attention of the head mechanic. Alonso ran to the pilot and handed him a file.
"This is the full data specs on the finished Odysseus. As you can see the parts salvaged from that captured ship give it more defensive and offensive abilities. Now, we recalibrated the thrusters to deal with the additional weight and shotgun recoil, it should work perfectly," the mechanic said. Daniel nodded and turned to his mobile suit.
The Gundam carried a different appearance now. It was now covered in a bulkier layer of armor, the same Lunar Titanium used in the main suit itself. The new layer of armor was almost cloak-like in design. A large piece of the armor was mounted on a movable joint on the shoulders, waits, and chest, completely protecting the mobile suit. Now mounted to the back layer of armor, although it rested by laying horizontally across the shoulder armor, was a triple-barreled shotgun mounted over each shoulder. Daniel smiled, this was a nice addition to his already liked mobile suit.
"Perfect," he said. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1802 hours
Davis grinned as he received his evening meal. Although he was not usually fond of ship food he was happy that his new ship was serving his favorite tonight, macaroni and cheese. Setting his fork in the steamed carrots he looked around for a place to sit. Surprisingly, not many of the crew on the ship had been killed during the commando raid, leaving the mess hall quite crowded.
He grinned as he spotted a table that had a few spots open. Sitting down he took a deep whiff of the food before happily taking a bite of carrots. The cooks on the Hector were much better then his old ship, the Sparta. He began to take bites quickly, as he had eaten a light lunch due to the fact that he had been busy working on the Aeneas.
“You seem hungry,” said a soft, feminine voice. Davis looked up, fork in mouth, to see the gorgeous blond woman from the bridge crew facing him. She laughed and he realized he had a fork sticking out of his mouth. He quickly removed it.
“That was funny,” the female said, taking a bite of her own food. Taking a quick look at her tray he noticed that is was all vegetables and fruits. The blond noticed the look and explained. “I’m a vegetarian.”
“I knew a vegan on my old ship,” Davis added, thinking back to the helmsman on the Sparta that lived by a strict diet of no animal based products.
“Oh. You must miss your friends,” the blond said, recognizing who Davis was. Davis looked down at his food, moving his macaroni around with his fork. “Yeah I do. I’ve just been trying to ignore that really.”
“On my old ship we lost half of our crew in an engine explosion. It’s tough but you’ll be fine. Oh, I don’t think we’ve been introduced properly. I’m Natalie Thompson,” the blond said.
“I’m Davis Charon. I-,” he was cut off by the presence of Captain William de Rochefort, suddenly standing beside their table. Davis gave a salute, which was returned. The Captain’s attention wasn’t on him though.
“Natalie, are you doing well?” he asked, with a bit of emotion in his voice. Natalie looked up, smiling. “Yes. I’m quite fine.”
“Okay. If you’ll excuse me I must go finish my report on yesterdays events,” de Rochefort replied, giving the two a salute before walking off. Davis looked at the man walk away, confused. Turning back to the blond he said:
“That was odd.”
“No not really,” Natalie replied. At Davis’s confused look she added. “He’s my uncle.”
“Oh,” Davis said, sitting back in his chair. After a moment of thinking he asked. “The Captain is French. Thompson doesn’t sound French.”
“Oh, well my mom is French, my dad was from America. I’m from Monaco really,” Natalie said smiling.
“I here that is a nice place,” Davis said, returning her smile. Davis kept his smile all through dinner. It was nice to have a good talk, if only to take his mind off yesterday.
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Post by Fireball on Jun 1, 2004 18:34:35 GMT -5
*** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome July 11, 2099, 0627 hours
With a raspy scream Vladmir Scalichs awoke. He was sweating heavily, his complexion pale and his face drawn. Gripping his side, were there was a small scar, he collapsed out of his bed, his breathing getting shorter and raspier. His mind was racing as he crawled around his quarters, looking for something important.
His hands groped his surroundings as he searched, his pain level rising. Finally he found what he desired, a large container of pills. He quickly, although roughly due to his shaking hands, opened the container and pulled out two pills. He hurriedly swallowed them and leaned back against the side of his bed until he felt the pain slowly began to decrease. Finally after a minute or so he got up, still gripping his side. Feeling much better he headed off to shower.
Around ten minutes later he left the shower and dried himself off, his long white hair matted to his pale skin. He slowly dressed himself, still feeling the dull throb in his side. He pulled on his black trousers and black boots. Then he pulled a white T-shirt over his chest, before covering that in the red uniform jacket of the Red Army. It was a deep red really, on it silver rank tags edged in black and black and red epaulets. Finally he pulled two white gloves over his pale hands. Finally dressed for the day he exited his room, pair of pills in his pocket just incase. *** Alliance of Colonies base Acre 1341 hours
Isaac straitened his uniform collar as he and Nicholas followed Commander Scalichs through the dock of the Acre base to meet with the commander. There was a large wrinkle in his collar, courtesy of Alexandra stepping on his jacket and accidentally pulling it across the floor this morning. Nicholas looked over at his fellow pilot and asked, “Are you okay?”
“Yes. Just my collar won’t fold,” Isaac replied coldly. He knew that Nicholas did not like his sister and his relationship. Sometimes that caused a bit of coldness between the two pilots, like now.
“Fine,” Nicholas replied, equally as coolly. The two followed Vladmir through the docks into the interior of the base. Acre was actually a third of a colony, containing a dock and a large amount of space for a military base. When production on a new colony had been halted after the war broke out the Alliance of Colonies had taken the constructed part and converted it into a base, while taking the rest of the materials for its industries.
The three entered a hallway just outside the dock and saw their companions, Matthew and Daniel. The five shook hands for a moment, before entering the office, the entrance of which was in the hallway they had just been standing in. Upon entering they were greeted by the base commander, Rear Admiral Carlos Toltec. The five visitors saluted their superior officer, who returned the gesture.
“Commander Scalichs,” Toltec said. At this Vladmir stepped forward, holding a small stack of files. Toltec took these and set them down on his large desk. “I assume these are the files on the new mobile suits and a report on the attack on Athens?”
“Yes sir,” Vladmir replied calmly. “There is also an additional file on the combat performance of the stolen mobile suits.”
At this comment the Rear Admiral became more alert. “You tested them in combat already?”
At the sudden harshness in the base commander’s voice Vladmir did not flinch. “Yes sir. We had already made a copy of the files and we were low on mobile suits. It was all a strategy to destroy the enemy ship that we did not capture.”
“Yet you let it get away,” Toltec added.
“Yes, it is unfortunate. The Rome had suffered damage and could not provide any support fire. The crew of that ship managed to execute a good defense. If I may also add the pilot of the mobile suit still in that ship’s possession proved to have better skills then expected. While the mission was unsuccessful we managed to probe their strengths and test the new mobile suits,” Vladmir stated.
“Yes that is true. I will look over these files later. After you mentioned your adventures two days ago I contacted high command. Here are your new orders,” Toltec said, picking up a letter on his desk. The five soldiers stood still, waiting to see where they would go from here.
Toltec explained, “High command has decided it is time to launch a strike on the Earth, most notably their mobile armor factories and bases in Venice, Italy, La Rochelle, France, and London, England. We have already begun amassing forces at the Moon for the drop operations. High command has decided to bring in forces from the Red Army to lead the assault. As of now you are to head to the Moon and join up with the rest of the forces. Seeing as you have already made copies of the new mobile suit data I give you permission to use them in the drop,” Toltec said, matter-of-factly.
“Yes sir!” the five said, giving a final salute before exiting the office. Soon the five soldiers were walking down the long hallway toward the dock. Matthew broke the silence between them saying, “A drop operation. I wonder were we will be assigned to attack.”
“Venice,” Vladmir said suddenly. “It has the strongest defenses, not to mention it is a more important target. We will definitely be striking there.”
And with that comment they continued their trek back to the Rome in silence. *** United Earth Government military outpost Hera 1548 hours
“Yes sir, I am well aware of that,” de Rochefort replied, talking to his superior officer. “I request that Ensign Charon stay on my ship, as well as Lieutenant Carson. Without them we will have no defenses aside from the onboard weapons.”
“I am of the Asian Alliance. Such matters need to be taken up with your own division of the UEG. As of now it is okay. We have a special assignment that will be perfect for you and your ship,” the aged Vietnamese officer said.
“What is that sir?” de Rochefort asked, wondering what battlefield they would end up on next.
“We have had sightings of a gathering of forces on the Moon. It seems the Colonies are preparing for some operation. We need your ship to join with the others preparing to make a defensive line and while on your way, destroy all enemy ships enroute to the Moon.”
“Yes sir!”
Next time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges: Having escaped Athens the two forces set off for a similar destination. While on the road to the Moon Davis will be tested in a new kind of combat. All this and more next time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges!
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Post by Fireball on Jun 2, 2004 0:54:16 GMT -5
Chapter 5: The Dead Sea
Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Herod July 12, 2099, 1407 hours
"So how long?"
Daniel turned away from the window he had been staring out of. Looking at Matthew he shrugged. "Probably a few days until we reach the Moon. I guess it gives us time to train in our Gundams."
"So you're using that acronym?" Matthew asked, referring to the operating system in the Earth mobile suits.
"Yeah. Its simple and sounds kind of cool," the taller pilot replied. Daniel turned back to the window, enjoying the view of the stars. To be honest, before joining the war effort he had always wanted to be an astronomer. That thought now in his head he turned back to his fellow pilot. "Why did you join the army?"
"Me? Well, my father was one of the colony senators that had recently joined Senator Felton when their shuttle was shot down by the UEG. I wanted revenge. I guess I joined for the wrong reasons," Matthew said, thinking back to the news he had received about his father's death.
"No you joined for the right reasons. I joined because my parents made me. They said it was the right thing to do. Said I should show some pride in my homeland. Here I am, fighting for my homeland."
"That is okay I guess. I mean, you are still alive and happy right?" Matthew asked.
Daniel sighed, shaking his dark hair. "I don't really seem happy anymore do I? I mean, nonstop fighting everywhere. Especially after we raided that Earth base. Still, I kind of want to find that pilot of the remaining Earth Gundam and see if he is any good."
"He is Daniel. He did pretty well dodging a full on attack from the Ajax and then dueling Nicholas's Achilles."
"Yeah I know, but I never really got the chance to fight another mobile suit since the training in the Academy. It just seems interesting."
"It's your choice Daniel. That is if we ever find that mobile suit again."
"I think we will Matthew. Come on, have some faith." *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector July 13, 2099, 1037 hours
William de Rochefort walked along the hallway leading away from the bridge humming. He knew it was odd to be humming a tune when his ship was hurrying on its way to prepare to join a defensive line against a rising number of enemies but he couldn't help himself. He was in a good mood indeed. He looked up as he spotted Richard Carson.
"Hello Lieutenant. I trust you are enjoying your accommodations?" de Rochefort asked with a small smile.
"Yes Captain. It's nice," Carson replied, stretching his arms. The two kept walking, turning a corner in hopes of reaching the hanger.
"Is your mobile armor fully repaired?" de Rochefort asked.
"Yes. Fully armed and operational. Although I think it would have been nice if we had been given some Hoplites at Hera. A few extra units couldn't have hurt, especially since we are heading to what could be one of the biggest battles since the battle for the Moon."
"Yes well, that can't be helped now. We should be thankful that we were given plenty of ammunition for our journey. There is a saying. I think it is from an old song by the Rolling Stones but it is quite true. 'You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes you just might find, you get what you need'. We needed weapons and we got them, as well as other supplies. We will be fine."
"Captain, you are quite the optimist," Carson said grinning.
"I try," de Rochefort replied. All of a sudden their conversation was cut off as the intercom blared. "Captain de Rochefort! Report to the bridge immediately!"
William sighed and with Carson behind him ran back to the bridge. They reached their location in just below a minute. While Carson hung back near the door, de Rochefort ran to his chair and looked around. "What is it?"
"Sir we have just received a SOS from the Pacific Alliance cruiser New Sydney!" Natalie said, informing her uncle.
"Where is this message coming from?" de Rochefort asked.
"It's coming from the mass of debree on the starboard side of the ship."
"Yaqub, what is in that area?"
"Sir I've picked up at least two ships in the area. It's hard to tell, too much wreckage. What caused all that anyway?" the radar officer asked.
"It's the Dead Sea," Carson said, gaining everyone's attention. "In 2085 a group of terrorists nuked three colonies being launched into space for Side 5. All of them were destroyed and no one ever got around to clearing out the damage. When the war began the Colonies began using it as a base to prey on ships passing by. No one ever pursued the ships because it would be close to impossible to find them and it would be unknown territory."
"Thank you Lieutenant Carson. Helm, full speed ahead. I want to reach the New Sydney soon!" de Rochefort ordered, to Carson's shock.
"Sir that's suicide. We could be attacked by a Colony ship from any direction!"
"I only want to save the crew of that ship, not engage in combat. We are going to help the New Sydney," de Rochefort said, obviously quite determined. Carson fell silent, although still uncertain about the plan.
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Post by Fireball on Jun 2, 2004 0:54:34 GMT -5
*** 1041 hours
"Are you sure? The rumors of the Dead Sea scared a lot of mobile armor pilots I knew," Davis asked as he sat near the Aeneas.
Samuel Wilson, the mechanic in charge of the Gundams maintenance nodded. Davis swallowed nervously. "And I have to launch into that?"
Samuel nodded again. Davis looked down at the floor. He wasn't really a coward but from what he had heard the Dead Sea had taken down at least twenty ships and countless mobile armors. He hoped a mobile suit would fare better.
Don't worry, you'll be fine. We are only going to help the crew then get out of there. It's nothing."
"I hope," Davis said, pulling on his helmet to his normal suit. He entered the Aeneas's cockpit and closed the hatch.
He turned the Gundam on, the monitors coming to life to reveal the busy hanger around him. Resting his hands on the joysticks he waited for the crew to move away from the Aeneas before grabbing the beam rifle and shield. Moving the machine forward he stopped at the elevator. Clamps locked the feet to the elevator as it rose into space. He moved the Aeneas into a crouching position as the catapult monitor slowly counted down from five. As the light turned to green he was suddenly thrown against his seat as the Gundam was propelled along the catapult. As he reached the end the anchors to the ship unclamped and Davis activated his thrusters, sending him soaring into space.
Davis shifted around in his chair to get comfortable after the rough launch and eased the Aeneas back a bit, settling it next to the bridge of the Hector. The two machine flew quickly toward the Dead Sea and the New Sydney. Due to their closeness and speed in launching they reached it rather quickly.
That is, although it was too late. As soon as they reached the location where the ship had broadcast its distress signal they found no sign of it. Davis increased his speed and flew closer to the debree, inspecting the area. Nothing. He swallowed again nervously. He was uncomfortable here. He could remember launching in the Sparta three months ago to help out a hard pressed UEG outpost. One of the ships that had been in port at the base then left to go to Hera. As Davis later found out the ship had been destroyed at the Dead Sea.
"Captain I can't find anything. I think we might..." he cut himself off as something caught his attention. He moved the Aeneas closer and magnified the image. It was a bit of floating wreckage like the rest of the Dead Sea. Except that there was an engraved name on it. New Sydney. He yelled over the radio, "Captain the New Sydney! It has been sunk.!"
Davis did not get the response he was expecting though. Over the radio Natalie cried, "Davis we've got a ship spotted nearby! Lookout!"
Her warning was too late. An explosion blossomed on the left arm of the Aeneas, sending it tumbling a bit. Davis stabilized it and looked around. Nothing was there. Then another explosion rocked the Aeneas. Cursing he checked the damage readouts coming up on the computer. The left knee joint was damaged, as well as the thruster close to it. The left arm was moving stiffly and would need to be repaired. With that finished Davis raised his beam rifle and looked around for a target.
Meanwhile as soon as the Aeneas had taken its first hit the Hector had targeted the direction of the attack. Soon a missile barrage attacked them. With an anti-air barrage most had been destroyed except for one that hit near the catapult. After that the ship aimed its beam cannons and fired. An explosion was spotted and one more missile attack then nothing.
Davis flew back to the Hector confused. After landing and exiting the Aeneas he rushed to the bridge to see what had happened. As the door to the bridge opened he saw the Captain with Carson, in deep conversation.
"Ensign Charon, please, join us," de Rochefort suggested. Davis nodded and walked toward them. "What is going on?"
"We were attacked by a raiding team of the Dead Sea. Probably the ones that took out the New Sydney. The Captain and I are discussing whether or not to go after them," Carson answered.
"We do not want to engage the entire Dead Sea force," de Rochefort said sternly.
"We damaged a ship. We should take it down now that we have the chance!" Carson argued.
"It is their territory, they could gun us down in no time."
"Not if we catch them in time!"
"Do you really want to risk this crew for one ship?"
Carson yelled back, "Do you want to let them continue to sink our ships?"
The Captain fell silent at that and lowered his head. Davis finally decided it was time to give his input. "I think that even if we manage to catch up to the ship we still have to deal with it and whatever shot at my mobile suit."
"It was a Centurion armed with a sniper rifle Davis," Carson informed him. "I've seen them in combat before. In a place like this they can blend in easily."
"Then we shouldn't follow."
"Wrong. A Centurion out here has a ship. And when the ship travels so does the mobile suit. It would be in the hanger and be unable to fire back immediately. We should go after it. Besides, our orders were to sink any Colony ships in our path to the Moon."
"He is right," de Rochefort said. "They have haunted the Dead Sea long enough. Let us at least take one down. Helm, bring us into the Sea. Yaqub, locate that ship immediately." *** Alliance of Colonies battle cruiser Flying Dutchman II 1109 hours
Lieutenant Moskof Yehvin laughed as the enemy ship entered the Dead Sea. The enemy cruiser had no idea that they were being watched. This would be an interesting game of cat and mouse. Turning to Ensign Vince Murray he asked:
"Is your mobile suit ready?"
"Yes sir, all set to launch," the pilot replied.
"And John's?"
"Also ready. Hey, no need to worry. These Earthnoids don't stand a chance against what we've got planned for them."
"I hope so. If not you might be going home in a body bag. They have a mobile suit!" Yehvin yelled.
"Hey. It can't be that good. We'll take it down before it can even spot us. We are some of the best snipers in the Dead Sea."
"You are right. Get to your mobile suit. Helm, move us in deeper on path 0309. Engines at full so that ship will follow us. Those poor fools probably think they are the cat."
Murray looked up from the doorway. "What happens when the cat is a complete idiot?" *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1111 hours
"Okay follow the ship. Try to avoid as much wreckage as you can," de Rochefort ordered as the engines of the enemy ship suddenly flared up in a bright blue burst of fire.
"Sir they've entered a path with little debree," Yaqub informed his Captain.
"Good we can follow them easier. Helm, keep to the side though. We don't want to be in their beam cannon's sights."
The ship advanced quickly, partially hidden by the wreckage. Meanwhile, the Flying Dutchman II began to slow down as it reached a large spot of no wreckage. It turned to port and then began to advance again. It was a moment to late for them though.
Jessica Remy, the Gunnery officer on the Hector called out, "Captain we have them in our firing range!"
The Captain nodded. "Good. Bring out the guns and target that ship. The sooner we shoot it down the better."
As the guns took aim something unexpected happened. A large amount of missiles launched in front of the Hector. Instead of hitting the ship one exploded prematurely and the others blew up as well, creating a large explosion that blinded the bridge crew. When the flames had subsided, the Colony ship was not there.
"Where did it go?" Natalie asked, looking around.
"They used the explosions to get away!" de Rochefort yelled in anger. "Move the ship forward! Have Ensign Charon launch as a scout. We need to find that ship."
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Post by Fireball on Jun 2, 2004 0:54:46 GMT -5
*** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1117 hours
Davis moved the Aeneas toward the debree, searching for the enemy ship. He was on the alert for that sniper Centurion. He did not wish to repeat what had happened last time. He had to find that sniper.
He cursed as his alarm blared suddenly. He threw the Aeneas into a spin to avoid a large beam that came flying toward him. The beam nearly hit the Gundam and put Davis on the edge instantly.
After the beam passed by him he saw the Hector open fire on the spot where the beam had come from. A few moments later a trio of missiles launched at the ship from the opposite side, causing an explosion that sent metal flying. Luckily, the ship was made out of the same material as the Aeneas, keeping it safe.
“Davis, we’re being attacked by the ship! Find it and hurry!” Natalie yelled over the radio as an explosion rocked the ship again. Davis looked around as the ship vanished into the wreckage. As he was about to fly after it the ship reappeared on the opposite side, launching another attack.
“What the Hell?” Davis exclaimed, surprised at the ship’s speed. He was about to fly after it when an explosion hit his mobile suit hard. It was the sniper.
Davis turned the Aeneas around to the direction the explosive round had come from and aimed his beam rifle. He flew forward and was hit in the shoulder. The attack sent him tumbling back a bit but soon he was on his way forward again. He fired his beam rifle but did not hit the Centurion.
He flew into the field of wreckage and cursed as he was hit in the side. He turned and spotted the Centurion. It was armed with a large sniper rifle and a ammo belt that fed the weapon bullets from a container on the hip. It raised the gun and fired again. Davis dodged, hitting a part of a ruined colony. He cursed as he corrected the Aeneas and raised his beam rifle. Firing a shot moved closer. The beam tore off the canister of ammo from the Centurion, leaving the mobile suit with little ammunition. Davis raised the beam rifle again and fired a shot that hit near the cockpit, sending the Centurion tumbling back and exploding.
Davis turned around to go help the ship when something caught his attention. The Hector was being attacked on the port side yet Davis could see a ship on the starboard sighed. Realizing what was going on Davis turned on the radio and yelled, “There are two ships!” just before an explosion rocked the Gundam. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1124 hours
“Sir we just received a message from Ensign Charon! There are two ships out there!” Natalie yelled over the sound of gunfire echoing through the ship.
“What? Have Lieutenant Carson launch and assist Ensign Charon in taking down one ship. Gunnery get a good hit this time! I want that ship sunk!” de Rochefort ordered angrily.
Jessica yelled back, agitated, “Yes Captain! Gun crews load missile tubes and get a lock onto that ship!”
The ship turned to aim all the main guns at the enemy ship. The guns turned, aiming at the source of the barrage. A missile from the enemy hit the catapult and sent metal flying but the Hector did not stop. All guns aimed it fired. The missiles exploded against the ship, the fires ripping into the cruiser and doing heavy damage. The beams then tore through the Flying Dutchman II, hitting the reactor and causing the ship to be destroyed in a burst of flames. *** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1124 hours
Davis cursed as the second Centurion, also armed with a sniper rifle hit the Aeneas. He flew at it, this time managing to pull off some evasive maneuvers thanks to being in the open area with very little wreckage. He holstered his beam rifle and drew a beam saber. He slashed downward, the Centurion flying backwards to barely avoid the attack.
Davis spotted the Apollo mobile armor fly toward the remaining ship, guns blazing. He called out a plan to his commander and grinned when it was received. The pop up machine cannons on the Aeneas appeared, spraying yellow tracers at the Centurion. It flew backwards again to avoid but left an opening for Davis to attack. He cut off the arm holding the sniper rifle, leaving the Centurion to draw its falchion sword.
Davis put away his beam saber and drew the beam rifle. He fired, the beam taking off the left leg of the Centurion and sending it spinning into the remaining ship, right next to the bridge. Meanwhile, Carson fired four missiles into the cruiser, setting off many explosions. One hit a beam cannon and sent the entire front part of the ship into flames. Davis aimed the beam rifle and fired one last shot. It passed through the Centurion into the ship, the mobile suit blowing up along with the reactor. Davis quickly raised his shield to block most of the explosion. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1814 hours
“Nicholas, this will be your second time at the Moon, correct?”
Nicholas turned away from the observation deck to face Vladmir Scalichs walking towards him. Outside the window the Moon was rapidly approaching. In a few more days the Rome would be docked in port preparing for the drop operation.
“Yes Commander, I came here to board the Rome before we first took off in February,” Nicholas replied.
“Yes. Then it was peaceful. Now, I think we shall have a bloody battle on our hands. You should go get something to eat,” Vladmir said, walking toward the railing to look out into space.
“Yes sir,” Nicholas replied, hoping to go find his sister. While the Russian pilot hurried off Vladmir leaned against the railing, swallowing as he pulled out a pill for his medication. He was already feeling the pain return. *** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1936 hours
Davis hummed a happy tune as the ship flew away from the Dead Sea toward the Moon. The repairs were taking a bit of time but right now that did not concern him. He was ready enjoy his planned meeting with Natalie. The two had a lot in common and Davis enjoyed talking to her. It took away all the stress he had taken on since becoming a mobile suit pilot. With her he could talk about almost anything.
Grinning happily he entered the small Pilot’s Lounge on the ship and waved a hello at Natalie. The blond stood up and said, “It’s good to see you Davis.”
Next time on Mobile Suit Gundam Indiges: Now out of the Dead Sea the Hector arrives at Moon. Yet the Colony operation is continuing on schedule. Davis will have to fight in something rivaling the Battle for the Moon. All this and more next time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges!
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Post by Fireball on Jun 7, 2004 19:25:32 GMT -5
Chapter 6: Descending Thunder
Alliance of Colonies lunar base Eve July 17, 2099, 1057 hours
There are so many mobile suits and ships here, Nicholas Kulich II thought as he watched the mobile suit carrier being loaded. He walked along the catwalks in one of the many hangers of the lunar base Eve. To his left was the carrier he would be boarding. In it, the Gundams Achilles and Diomedes were being locked into place.
He had to admit, the people on this base moved very quickly in their work. After only just arriving at the moon he and Isaac had already had their mobile suits checked on. Due to the new material in the construction of the Achilles there weren't many spare parts for armor but the mechanics said that they had found out how to make the somewhat expensive armor and would begin making spare parts. Soon after that preparations had begun to prepare the machines for the drop.
"Hey! Nicholas!" the pilot of the Achilles turned to see Daniel Dia run up to him, his sleeves on his uniform rolled up and his black hair neatly cut. Nicholas smiled and high-fived his friend.
"So did you here? It looks like each of us are going to be co-commanders on this mission," Daniel said, gesturing to the mobile suit carriers being loaded up.
"Yes. I guess it is because of the Earth mobile suits," Nicholas replied.
"Yeah, that's what Commander Scalichs told Matthew and me. Either way, this is going to be one hell of fight. I don't just mean the attack in Venice," Daniel said.
"I here the Earth forces have set up a defensive line to stop any ships from getting through."
"Yeah. I ran into Isaac a few minutes ago. He said that there would be a ship battle that would rival the Battle for the Moon, or something along those lines. He was in a hurry and wasn't really speaking clearly. I think he was looking for Alexandra...oh sorry Nicholas," Daniel said, scratching the back of his head nervously. He knew that Nicholas did not like his sister's romance with Isaac.
"It's okay Daniel. I can not change free will."
"Right. Man, you are too much of a philosopher," Daniel said, chuckling.
"Well, that was my interest before I enrolled in the Academy," Nicholas said, leaning a rail, a smile on his face. He turned when he saw the stepson of Senator Andrew Felton walk toward the two.
"Hi," Matthew Fury said, waving hello. Like Daniel his uniform sleeves were rolled up and his collar was undone, revealing a small crucifix on a silver chain. The English pilot took a look at one of the mobile suit carriers, the one which held the Gundams Ajax and Odysseus. "This sure is something, huh?"
"Yeah," Daniel replied. "It's going to be a big battle."
The three stood there, observing the loading of mobile suits, and chatting happily. Pretty soon they'd be boarding their machines to launch but now they were just enjoying life. Unbeknownst to them, Vladmir Scalichs watched them intently nearby, a smile on his pale face. ***
European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1139 hours
"We're finally here," Richard Carson mused, stretching his arms as he entered the ships bridge. All around the carrier were battleships and cruisers, all forming a defensive line to hold off the confirmed Colony operation. The ships were all facing the moon and the lunar base that housed the main part of the lunar defense forces of the Colonies.
"Yes," William de Rochefort replied, turning his head to look at Carson. "We just received orders from Admiral Colban to be at the front of the line. Apparently we've been given some fame lately."
"I blame the governing council," Carson replied with a smirk.
"As do I," Yaqub chimed in.
"Then it's agreed," de Rochefort said. "On to more important matters we have possibly one of the largest fleets the Colonies have ever made. Also, intelligence reports that a fifth of that fleet is composed of the Red Army."
"Oh great, as if we didn't have enough problems on our hands," Carson muttered sarcastically.
"You could be bit more serious," Natalie said dryly.
"Oh excuse me to not being thrilled at facing people that could kill us all."
"Well at least I realize what we are facing!"
"Little girl you had better shut up. Not everything is perfect," Carson retorted.
"You know what? You are a complete dumbass!" Natalie yelled back. Carson contorted his face in anger and began to walk over to the communications officer when de Rochefort stepped in front of him.
"Lieutenant that is enough. I don't want anyone on this ship to be arguing, especially now. Go get some rest," he said, leaving no room for buts.
"Yes sir," Carson muttered, before walking off. ***
1204 hours
Davis was nibbling on his lunch thinking about the assault that might happen at any moment when an angry Natalie slammed her tray of food down hard in front of him, making him jump. The blond sat down angrily and looked down at her food with a scowl.
"What's the matter?" the Greek pilot asked, causing her to look up.
"Well, apparently we are going to be at the very front of the defense. Cannon fodder! And that ass of a man Lieutenant Carson is pissing me off!" she said, very angry.
"Look, I know him. It's nothing. He just gets stressed out easily. As for our new orders, it will be okay. I mean, we've survived this far right?"
"Well yeah I guess..." she trailed off, pouting.
"Don't worry. Everything will be fine. I'll make sure no one harms the ship," Davis said, touching her hand to reassure her. She smiled and squeezed his hand.
"I hope you are right Davis." *** Unknown location Unknown time
"So it seems that you three are at a loss," said a hushed, Japanese voice.
"Yes, you three really are fucked up," chuckled a man with a Boston, Massachusetts accent.
"It is not all bad, we managed to hold onto one of the mobile suits," said a Germanic female voice.
"Yes, at the cost of one mobile carrier, as well as another mobile suit. Lets not forget that you lost the other four!" yelled the Japanese man.
"I swear, the North America Alliance could have made better mobile suits; and hold onto them!"
"We have more important things to talk about so be quiet!" yelled another. The lights of the room slowly dimmed around the eighteen members of the United Earth Government Council. In the center of the circular table they were sitting at a holographic map appeared, displaying the moon and the UEG forces stationed near it.
"We have close to twenty ships forming a defensive line, including the Hector," said the female German.
"We estimate that there are at least ten ships there for the gathered assault, also there are around fifty mobile suits gathered," said the Japanese man.
"Let us not forget that there is also the Lunar Defense Fleet there. That beefs up both the ships and the mobile suits," said the man from Boston.
"We should strike now while we have the chance!" said a man with an Egyptian accent. The German female turned to him and with a stern look said, "General Saladin I think not! We have no way of overtaking a fully defended base with reinforcements on it!"
The African Alliance representative General Muhammad Saladin turned away from the blond German and muttered under his breath, "You greedy little Nazi fuck!"
"So it is decided then?" asked the representative with the Boston accent.
"Yes. Inform Admiral Colban to hold his position. We don't want any Spaceniods getting to Earth," said the Japanese man with a sneer.
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Post by Fireball on Jun 7, 2004 19:26:35 GMT -5
*** Alliance of Colonies lunar base Eve 1801 hours
Vladmir walked into the briefing room flanked by the four Gundam pilots. They were dressed in the red and black normal suits befitting the Red Army and held their helmets under their arms. Vladmir walked into the room oddly. His posture was great, a confidant and commanding look, yet his head stared at the floor in a manor that was quite odd.
The briefing room was quite large. It held a projection screen at one end, while the other end was filled with a bleacher like chairs. Already there were the commanders of the mobile suit teams on each group, as well as the other pilots. Near the projection screen were the ship captains, almost all in gray uniforms aside a select few, including the skipper of the Herod. The four Gundam pilots walked to some empty seats and sat down while Vladmir walked over to join his fellow ship commanders.
After a minute or two for the rest of the members of the drop operation to arrive the base commander, a Admiral Mitothin, stood up and walked over to the podium near the projection screen. Activating the screen, which showed a map of the area near the moon, with various dots and dashed lines representing enemies and planned paths. Turning to the audience he began to speak.
"As you all know we are gathered here to launch an assault of the Earth. This assault is designed to cripple their military production in France, Italy, and America. We have split our forces into three groups. Each group will consist of twenty mobile suits for the assault.
"Now since there are three groups for three targets there are obviously different orders for each group. First off, the Portland team," with this Admiral Mitothin turned to a group of pilots in the audience that would lead the assault on that destination. "You shall set off from the main fleet while they hold the Earth defense force at bay. When you land in Oregon outside Portland you should advance immediately. Our naval forces in the Pacific Ocean should spot you and launch the assault on the docks. This should act as a diversion allowing you to reach the ship building facilities and secure them. You are to merely secure the position. A large group of Marines will handle the infiltration of the base. Now, once this objective is finished we need you to then move onto the main base where we believe the North American Alliance is working on new weapons. We need you to destroy the base, not capture it. There is no need to worry; there are no weapons of mass destruction there so it is safe to annihilate them.
"Once this has been done you should hold the city and wait for new orders. The naval commanders shall inform you on what to do. Remember, there are military bases along the Pacific coast so you will likely encounter attempts to retake the city. If this does happen call in reinforcements from the naval bases in Hawaii."
Mitothin turned back to the projection screen which showed two maps. One of the space near the moon and another showing a good portion of the coast of France. The admiral turned to another group of pilots and addressed them next.
"The France team. You are going to have a bit more of an escort through the defense and you will have to drop at a location more defended then the way to America. Do not worry though, you shall be taken care of.
"Now, when you land you shall attack along the Northwestern coast. Your targets are the dry-dock at La Rochelle, along with the space ship factories in Rochefort, and the other cities along the coast. Now since this is a large target you are merely the mobile backup to the large fleet gathered along the coast. Should assistance be needed you shall be called in.
"Now I want you to remember, this is not an attempt to capture these facilities. There are too many of them. This is merely a hit and run operation. Once you complete your tasks you are to beat a retreat with the navy. Is that clear?"
With the chorus of "Yes sir!", Mitothin nodded and finally turned to the pilots from the Red Army. Behind him the map changed, showing Venice and its surroundings were the map of France's coast was.
"Now, our final group, composed of pilots from the Red Army shall assault Venice, Italy. At Venice there are a group of factories responsible for eighty percent of mobile armor production for the European Alliance and thirty percent for the entire UEG military. It is your job to assault this location and completely destroy it.
"We have a group of soldiers stationed outside the edge of the city were the factories are. You launch your assault and they will take out the ground forces. They are mostly infantry although there are a few armored cavalry with them. While you take out heavy defense and do as much damage as possible to the facility they shall plant explosives there to destroy the facility. When they inform you that the explosives have been planted you must retreat heading south toward Rome. Your mobile suits are to provide cover of the rear.
"Because of the importance of your mission we have allowed the pilots of the four stolen mobile suits to command your group. These mobile suits are superior to the standard Centurion and shall be of great assistance you and to your assault."
His orders to the pilots done the base commander turned to the ship commanders. The screen then changed to show a picture of the amassed enemy ships. Taking a breath the admiral continued to give out orders.
"You, the naval commanders, shall provide an escort to the drop units. The base defense fleet shall join you and their mobile suits but you are the advance forces. We are relying on you to distract the enemy fleet long enough for the mobile suit transports to begin atmospheric re-entry.
"As for command in this Commander Vladmir Scalichs of the Red Army hold command of the advanced fleet while the main fleet shall be commanded by myself. Squadron leaders shall be assigned at the close of this briefing. Is that understood?"
"Yes sir!" replied the ship commanders, all except Vladmir who simply responded with a slight nod.
"Good. Dismissed!" said Mitothin and the pilots got up from their seats and began to walk out of the briefing room. The ship commanders stayed put as the chain of command was starting to be formed. The Gundam pilots filed out of the room in the crowd of the other pilots.
"Venice huh? I always wanted to see that place," Daniel said, a grin on his face as he turned the corner out of the briefing room.
"I wish we were going somewhere closer to Rome. I always wanted to visit the Vatican, even if I could only take a look at it. I've seen pictures, it is quite nice," said Matthew.
"Just once I wish you didn't have to talk about anything that has to do with God," muttered Isaac. Matthew opened his mouth to reply but Nicholas cut him off.
"Stop it you two. Isaac, one can be religious of they want to. It is nothing to be angry about. Now come on, we have to get to our mobile suits," the pilot of Achilles said, walking briskly through the crowd.
"He's right. We have to hurry," Daniel said before hurrying after the Russian. Isaac and Matthew followed suit as the quartet hurried to the hanger with the other pilots.
Reaching the hanger they stopped for a second and turned to each other. Shaking hands they wished each other luck before parting ways to go to their mobile suit carriers. Nicholas and Isaac hurried to their carrier and ran past the eight Centurions being boarded by their pilots to the European Alliance mobile suits.
Isaac kicked off the ground in the zero gravity and reached the catwalk near the Gundam Diomedes' cockpit. He climbed into the non-reflective black and gray mobile suit. Closing the hatch he started up the mobile suit and brought the monitors to life. As he finished his start up procedures he thought to himself, Wish me luck Alexandra.
Nearby Nicholas had entered the black and silver Gundam Achilles. Starting up the mobile suit he made sure that the beam sabers were loaded in the shield and at the backpack before checking the rest of his systems and weapons. Seeing that everything was in order the Russian lowered his head and said quietly, "Sarah, please protect me and grant me your grace."
Meanwhile in the nearby carrier Daniel and Matthew rushed to their respective machines. Daniel boarded the blue and gray Gundam Odysseus and started it up. Seeing that everything was in order he made sure that the Acre Cloak was secure and well. Checking his weapon systems he grinned as everything was ready.
Across from him in the Gundam Ajax Matthew started up his machine. He made sure that the missiles were loaded, and made sure that the pair of Centurion machine guns the Ajax gripped were too. With that done he made the sign of the cross and waited for the transport to launch.
Finally after a few minutes, once everyone was ready, the fleet began to leave port. The advance forces, escorted by ten Centurions flew ahead of the six transports while the rest of the fleet stayed in the rear.
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Post by Fireball on Jun 7, 2004 19:26:56 GMT -5
*** European Alliance mobile carrier Hector 1832 hours
On the bridge of the Hector chaos was breaking loose. Natalie winced from the flurry of radio messages being sent back and forth. Yaqub was informing the captain of the advancing enemy fleet. Finally after a bit of waiting Natalie received the orders for the ship and the rest of the fleet. Turning to her uncle she called out:
"Sir! Message from command! We are to launch all mobile armors and the Aeneas. Also, when the enemy fleet comes into range we are to open fire once we have them in our sights!"
"Okay," replied Captain de Rochefort. "Natalie order Carson and Charon to launch immediately and join up with the rest of the mobile forces. Gunnery prepare to acquire targets! All hands to battle positions!"
While Natalie carried out her orders the members of the lower bridge also went to work. Jessica hurried to inform her crew while everyone brought up visuals and radars of the approaching enemy.
In the hanger, Davis, who had been sitting in the Aeneas's cockpit was slightly startled by the announcement to launch. He quickly got over this and called out to Wilson. "Is the Aeneas ready for launch?"
"Yeah! Fuel tanks are full and your weapons are too! You're first off the catapult so close the hatch and get to the elevator!" replied the mechanic over the radio.
"Okay!" Davis yelled back as he closed the hatch to the Aeneas and grabbed the nearby shield and beam rifle. Ready to launch he walked the Gundam to the elevator and gripped the joysticks as the machine was slowly lifted into space. Davis looked around as his monitors slowly came to display the space. He watched as many Hoplite mobile armors launched from other ships and carriers and prepared to launch himself. He saw the countdown on the catapult and readied himself. Taking a deep breath he felt the Aeneas suddenly being pulled forward at a rapid speed and was then thrown into space. He activated his thrusters and exhaled quickly as he prepared to join up in formation for the defense.
[Cue music: AFI "The Nephilim"]
Swing through sadness, tears of joy.
Davis flew next to a trio of Hoplites and readied his beam rifle to aim at the approaching fleet. Behind him, the Apollo mobile armor launched from the Hector and hurried to join the defensive line. Davis took another deep breath as he prepared for what was to come.
Curse the sunlight, arsenics for the girls and boys. *** Alliance of Colonies assault carrier Rome 1834 hours
Drink the madness, smoke so coy. Smile injection, serum of a will destroyed. Serum of a will.
Commander Vladmir Scalichs had a small smile on his face as the ships quickly hurried to reach the Earth’s defensive line. Opening his eyes while brushing a bang of white hair from his face he called out in a loud voice:
“All ships launch a missile barrage at the enemy! Follow through with a beam attack. We must lay down heavy suppression fire for the transports to get through!”
As the other ships received the message the pale man sat down in his seat and smiled again. On his ships the Gunnery officer gave the order to fire and Vladmir watched the rockets fly away from the advanced fleet and toward the Earth fleet. He felt a rush of satisfaction as explosions blossomed around the enemy.
The seasons change, change without me. I remain, in shadow’s growing wings. The spirit song still surrounds me, in refrain. In shadow’s growing wings.
“Beam cannons fire!” yelled Vladmir. In response the bright yellow beams lanced out from the Colony ships and into the enemy’s path. He wanted to laugh from the destruction being caused by his words but he restrained himself. He could feel his hands beginning to twitch but he ignored it. Not that intense yet.
“Okay decrease angle by forty-five degrees! Engines to full! All mobile suits advance! We are going to attack from under them!” *** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1836 hours
Sweep through sadness, tears of joy. Curse the sunlight, arsenics for the girls and boys.
Davis threw the Aeneas to the side to avoid a yellow beam from hitting him in the torso. He could not see what was behind him but he could tell from the screams over the radio that some of the ships had been hit. He cursed at this and flew forward quicker. As he saw a Centurion advance he opened fire on it. The first beam hit the shoulder joint on the machine, sending the right arm spinning away. He fired again and was rewarded with an explosion as his shot pierced the reactor. Over the radio he heard the order to engage and shoot down as many mobile suits as possible.
Drink the madness, smoke so coy. Smile injection. Serum of the will, serum of the will destroy.
Davis watched as the Hoplite mobile armors fired bullets and missiles at the approaching mobile suits. They managed to do a little damage but it was obvious they were inferior to the Centurions. He cursed as he saw many of the machines shot down, not only from the mobile suits but also from the suppression fire the Colony ships were laying down.
The Greek pilot gritted his teeth as the Aeneas was rattled from machine gun fire. He turned the Gundam to fire back and felt his mobile suit being rattled some more. He fired his beam rifle but the Centurion dodged the attack so Davis holstered the weapon and drew a beam saber. Flying forward he slashed his melee weapon and saw the beam cut through the waist of the mobile suit. He kicked it away and flew back to avoid the explosion.
The seasons change, change without me. I remain, in shadow’s growing wings. The spirits song still surrounds me, in refrain. In shadow’s growing wings. *** UEG mobile armor Apollo 1837 hours
Richard Carson flew to the side as yellow tracers flew past him. He maneuvered the Apollo into the fray as the enemy fleet came extremely close to the Earth fleet. He fired off a pair of missiles at a enemy ship but they were shot down by enemy anti-air fire. He cursed and turned the mobile armor back toward his forces.
Like and angel, with two broken wings, reach to the sky again.
He spotted a cruiser under heavy fire from a Caesar class assault carrier and flew toward it to assist in its defense. He was startled as his warning monitors flared up. His mobile armor was knocked around and he was soon spinning. He had a moment to see a Centurion holding a falchion sword fly away before his mobile armor crashed into the cruiser. It exploded on impact. Meanwhile the Caesar class ship fired its beam cannons and hit the cruiser. With its reactor pierced the ships was destroyed in a flash of light and flames.
Like a devil, meant for better things, I will find my place on high. *** European Alliance mobile suit Aeneas 1841 hours
Davis turned his Gundam around and fired a beam into the beam cannon of a Colony ship. The cannon exploded in a burst of flames and he grinned. He was slightly surprised at his sudden moment of happiness. Was he enjoying killing?
He had no time to ponder that as a mobile suit transport near him was shot down. He had a moment to see what it was before it was destroyed. He suddenly looked around for the other ships and saw that they were already reaching the atmosphere. He cursed and flew toward them. He raised his beam rifle to shoot them down when it was shot out of his hand by a anti-air gun from an enemy ship. He cursed and with a sudden feeling of courage flew toward a mobile suit transport and grabbed onto it. He grabbed a large rail and held onto it with both his mobile suit’s hands. The Aeneas was now under the protection of the transport as it flew into the Earth’s atmosphere.
The seasons change, change without me. I remain, in shadow’s growing wings. The spirit song still surrounds me, in refrain. In shadow’s growing wings.
Next time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges: While Davis and the Gundam Aeneas pursue the Colony mobile suits to Earth the Hector continues to fight against the enemy fleet. With no defense aside from its own, can the crew survive? All this and more next time on Mobile Suit Gundam: Indiges!
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